Recommended by PCP to stop VAX-D and go to Neuro-Surg.....I'm in need of Hugs

My PCP who recommended I do the VAX-D is now suggesting I'm not benefitting from it and should be referred to a Neuro-Surgeon. I've listened carefully to everyone's warnings and insight to my treatment of choice which was VAX-D. For the first 6 sessions I really was doing well....My pain level was down quite a bit....and I was [B]almost[/B]
walking normally again. I still had quite a bit of pain in my butt, but I was told that too would go away....

I guess I should tell you I have a ruptured disk at L5 that is pinching the root of the S1 nerve and that's where all my pain is. Right leg, butt and ankle.
On Saturday night, I sneezed 3 times in succession.....I thought my top was going to blow. It sent pain from my butt to my big toe, and it didn't just go away....I cried for and hour and a half. Every bit of progress that I had made, went back to square one....I'm so depressed. I went in for treatment today, and the therapists were "not comfortable" putting me on the table in that much pain...so they had me see the doctor. He prescribe Elavil on top of several other meds I'm alrealdy taking,....Percocet 10/325, Valium 10mg (1/2 at bedtime for sleep along with Ambien for sleep). Said the Elavil is used as a pain mgmt med, although for years it was prescribed as an anti-depressant. I'M JUST SO LOST RIGHT NOW. If I could find a direction, I think I would be able to "chin up" and move on. Right now I'm tired and don't know if I'm coming or going. Have any of you experienced any of this.

I have been searching for a Neuro-Surgeon who specializes in the Spine...and think we have found one. I guess I need help on what my next options should be...I'm leaning toward steriod injections, as my next move....I hurt too much right now to [B]EVEN[/B] consider PT.....My hubby and I have talked and I am giving one more week of VAX-D treatment,....and if no significan changes, then it's time to move on to a neuro-surgeon and try some other options.

What are some good starting points.....I found two Spinal Clinics in my state. I'd rather do the steriod injections, than trigger point shots. Can some one tell me what the difference is between the two???? Yesterday was 10 weeks exactly of Round the clock pain, 24/7....I'm so frustrated, It's starting to get to me in every way possible....I wouldn't say I'm clinically depressed, but I'm certainly more "emotional" than usual. I feel so helpless, and I want to take care of my husband the way he takes care of me....cooking, cleaning, ironing, etc.....it all makes me feel so "little"....

I've tried to keep a Positive attitude thru all of this...but sometimes as you know, when the pain creeps in....it's rough.....

Now I'm just rambling. I'm sorry. I just want to hear someone say they understand, they've been there. I'm scared....And I want to feel better.
Any thoughts, well wishes or scoldings will be welcomed! I just need an ear or two right now. Thanks for listening and thanks in advance for responding.

Here's to hoping that one day soon we will all have some pain free days!

Becky, first of all, there is nothing wrong with the way you are feeling. I know all of the emotions you are feeling right now as well as the physical pain. I had a ruptured disc at L5,S1 and fought it for a year. I finally went to a neurological surgeon and it was the best decision I ever made. Just because they are a surgeon does not mean they will always recomend it for you. Your PCP is trained to treat several different disease states but they don't know everything. A specialist will know more about the spine and how to best treat you.

For me, surgery was the best option but it may not be the best one for you. It is kind of difficult because you see some horror stories. I cannot tell you what is best for you but try to have an open mind when you go to the surgeon. Whatever options the surgeon offers you, inform yourself as much as you can.

I can really relate to the difficulties you are having. I was a different person for too long. I was in so much pain, I was angry, grouchy, rude and mean. I am not any of those things when I am my real self. It was the pain talking. Don't be ashamed of how you feel, just understand where it is coming from. Keep fighting and believing you can get better. I will keep you in my prayers and I hope you get some relief soon. By the way, I also take Elavil. I take it primarily to help me sleep. I still have some pain in my foot because the nerve was compressed for so long. Hang in there!

Re: Recommended by PCP to stop VAX-D and go to Neuro-Surg.....I'm in need of Hugs

Thanks for the reply Alan:

I meant to say that the Elavil was for sleep as well as the Ambien and 1/2 Valium.....I took all 3 last night and still woke up at 4 am in pain.... but at least I did not wake up every hour like I had been doing....That's a plus....